Enjoy this buzzing conversation about the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence (AI) in the nonprofit sector. The theme? Winning the Tech Game! Jeff Hensel, a tech expert from Eide Bailly, with a background at Microsoft, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the conversation, sharing game-changing insights on how nonprofits can harness the power of AI. “At the end of the day, AI is going to become pervasive,” he says. . . . . .Whether you’re a chemist, an accountant, or a nonprofit leader, the future is clear: AI will be integrated into nearly every aspect of work. The question is, how can nonprofits stay ahead of the curve?
A key theme of this discussion, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Meico Marquette Whitlock, is the gradual, mindful implementation of AI. As Jeff describes, “It’s a process…you don’t want to go too big in terms of your scope.” He emphasizes the value of starting small, especially with manageable tasks like content generation or HR processes, to build momentum and achieve quick wins. This cautious yet proactive approach helps nonprofit organizations avoid the pitfalls of rushing into AI adoption without a solid foundation in place.
The trio also talk about the human element of technological change. Meico suggests how a successful AI integration depends heavily on people’s buy-in and engagement, saying “From a psychological perspective…it’s actually healthy in terms of being able to support long-term change,” adding that employees need to see tangible short-term results to maintain momentum and alleviate fears about AI displacing jobs. And Jeff goes on to concur, stressing that fostering a culture of trust and continuous learning is crucial for navigating the complexities of AI adoption.
Organizational success with AI lies not just in adopting the technology, but in aligning it with long-term strategic goals and ensuring strong leadership support. Jeff shares that AI should be seen as a tool to complement, not replace, human efforts, with its true potential unlocked when approached thoughtfully, with careful planning and organizational buy-in.
This is day 3 of a very insightful Nonprofit Power Week Series, with Eide Bailly, covering many important aspects of tech in nonprofits. Don’t miss any of them!